Milner publically expressed his desire to stay at the Etihad after City's Champions League triumph over Roma last week, as he said: "There are talks going on so hopefully it will be sorted soon. I just want to contribute as much I can because there are a lot of games during the season."

Those comments were echoed by manager Manuel Pellegrini, who asserted that a new contract for the player was virtually a done deal. Nevertheless, recent reports suggest that little progress has been made on negotiations which started over three weeks ago, despite Milner being one of the club's most influential players this season.

In spite of past criticism, the former Aston Villa man must be applauded for his tenacity and incredible work rate, as well as his drive to succeed for both club and country.

Having made a rocky start to life at the Etihad, Milner has made himself an integral part of the club's plans, under each and every manager he has encountered. This term he has made 14 Premier League appearances in total, and a further six in the Champions League, missing just two of the club's domestic fixtures.

Interestingly, looking at the Opta stats, there is one key attacking area that sees the England international stand out from the rest.

Of the Premier League players to have made for than five appearances this term, Milner has fashioned a key pass most regularly. This sees him create a chance for City more often than the division's leading playmakers - the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri, Stewart Downing and Angel Di Maria.

Team

Appearances

Total Att Assist MINS

Mins Played

James Milner

Man City

14

23.75

760

Cesc Fàbregas

Chelsea

15

26.54

1,327

Samir Nasri

Man City

11

26.79

777

Stewart Downing

West Ham

15

26.98

1,349

Ángel Di María

Man Utd

11

27.03

838

If Manuel Pellegrini is still searching for a reason to re-sign the 28-year-old, this should prove sufficient. Not only is Milner the club's most creative player - based on these measures - but he also holds the top spot in the English top flight - an admirable feat.

Chris Linnell

Chris is a freelance football writer from Wiltshire, England. He is currently studying Modern History and Politics at the University of Liverpool. He has written for various other sites, including the Boot Room and Bleacher Report. His work has also featured on Eurosport.